CERIDES – Centre of Excellence in Risk and Decision Sciences of European University Cyprus had a strong presence  during the 1st Planning Conference of the landmark UCPM DEMONAX – Cyprus Earthquake Full-Scale Exercise, which took place at the premises of the Cyprus Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) on 3rd and 4th April 2025.

DEMONAXCy is funded by the European Union in Emergencies. During DEMONAXCy, the latest version of the FAIM exercise evaluation framework will be applied. The FAIM framework was introduced by Dr Christos Dimopoulos, Director of Science in Civil Protection at CERIDES, and is continuously updated based on experience gained from its application in multiple UCPM Full-Scale Preparedness Exercises.

The aim of DEMONAXCy is to strengthen the capacity of the Republic of Cyprus to effectively prepare for and respond to the statistically high likelihood of a large-scale earthquake on the island—an event that could significantly disrupt societal functions and result in considerable human and financial losses. 

Also read: Nova ICT | Undertaking the Implementation of the National Crisis Management System and National Database in Civil Protection

Additionally, DEMONAX – Cyprus Earthquake Full-Scale Exercise seeks to test and enhance Cyprus’ ability to activate the UCPM mechanism and effectively implement the EU’s Host Nation Support (HNS) guidelines for accommodating international support teams.

The DEMONAX consortium includes the following organisations:

• Cyprus Civil Defence – Cyprus (Project Coordinator) 
• European University Cyprus / CERIDES – Centre of Excellence in Risk and Decision Sciences
• Ministry of Interior of Montenegro – Montenegro
• Direction générale de la Sécurité civile et de la gestion des crises – France
• General Secretariat of Civil Protection – Greece
• Dipartimento della Protezione Civile – Italy 
• National Observatory of Athens – Greece
• Ministero dell’Interno – Italy

Full information regarding DEMONAXCy can be found on the Union Civil Protection Knowledge Network project page HERE.

Also read: Inauguration of Civil Protection Academy – Programs